Run flat tires
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Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 16
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Rust Bucket
Run flat tires
According to MBUSA, the 2011 GL550 is equipped with all-season run flat tires. Anyone care to share their opinion on these tires? And do you think these tires will improve or hurt the ride quality? Thanks.
Super Member
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 597
Likes: 1
From: Monterey, CA
'97 E320
Have the Goodyear LS-2 on our '09. The tires are definitely stiffer and make it ride a bit harsher, but the ADS really helps. Biggest downside to these tires is that they have a lot of impact noise, meaning that bumps in the road create a little "whump" when you hit them. Also, I'd be willing to bet that MPG would increase noticeably without the heavy runflat tires. They are wearing great with well over 50% tread remaining after 27k miles of use, which is good considering they cost almost $500 each new.
Though I'm not a fan of runflat ride characteristics, I much prefer that my 62 year old mother doesn't have to sit roadside waiting for AAA in case of a flat.
Though I'm not a fan of runflat ride characteristics, I much prefer that my 62 year old mother doesn't have to sit roadside waiting for AAA in case of a flat.
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 814
Likes: 9
15 GL550
I agree with stickygreen on the durability. I have 20,000 miles on mine and still have at least half the tread remaining. I don't baby them either. Surprising considering what others have reported they are getting out of their 19" tires.
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 302
Likes: 1
From: Sunny So-Cal
2011 QX56 (formerly '11 GL350)
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 59
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2011 GL350 Bluetech, 2000 Porsche 911 C2, 2005 Honda S2000
I agree. I'm satisifed with the ride but believe it would be better with non-run flats. Bumps are more harsh than they should be considering how soft the ride is in Comfort mode on my 350. I'm not a big fan of run flats. I'd rather have a spare.
